Fairfax County, Virginia, stands out as one of the wealthiest and most diverse counties in the United States, boasting a population exceeding one million people. The region hosts numerous historical sites, cultural attractions, and natural parks.
Nevertheless, safety and tranquility aren’t uniform across all areas within the county. Certain neighborhoods experience elevated levels of crime and violence, presenting a potential danger to both residents and visitors.
This article aims to highlight the five most perilous neighborhoods in Fairfax County, relying on up-to-date crime statistics and reports.
| Neighborhood | Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents) | Interesting Fact |
| Huntington | 56 | Named after a late-1940s subdivision of duplex homes1 |
| Baileys Crossroads | 41 | Named after one of America’s first circus showmen |
| Hybla Valley | 37 | Originally a dairy farm community |
| Groveton | 34 | Site of a Civil War battle in 1862 |
| Centreville | 34 | Established in 1792 as a town on the turnpike road |
Huntington
This area holds the highest crime rate in the county, registering 55.76 crimes per 1,000 residents. Both property crimes and violent crimes are widespread in this neighborhood.
Huntington derives its name from the late-1940s Huntington subdivision, characterized by predominantly duplex homes. Additionally, the Huntington Community Center, situated in this area, provides a range of programs and services catering to residents of all ages and abilities.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Tempe, Arizona
Baileys Crossroads
This neighborhood ranks second-highest in the county for crime, with 40.88 crimes per 1,000 residents. Robbery is notably prevalent, making up 23% of all robberies in the county.
Baileys Crossroads derives its name from Hachaliah Bailey, one of America’s earliest circus showmen, who lived here and acquired a piece of land in 1837. Additionally, it is home to a recently established community shelter and supportive housing facility, opened in 2019 to offer emergency shelter and permanent housing for homeless adults.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Mesa, Arizona
Hybla Valley
This community ranks third in the county for its crime rate, registering 36.67 crimes per 1,000 residents. Property crimes, constituting 13% of all such incidents in the county, are the predominant concern in this neighborhood.
Initially, Hybla Valley functioned as a dairy farm community, hosting notable establishments like Sherwood Farm, Hybla Valley Farm, and Popkins Farm. Additionally, it is home to Gum Springs, a historic African American community established by West Ford, a freed slave who served as a manager on George Washington’s Mount Vernon plantation.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Cochise County, Arizona
Groveton
This area ranks fourth in the county for its crime rate, with 34.32 crimes per 1,000 residents. The most common offenses in this neighborhood are theft and motor vehicle theft.
The name Groveton is derived from the Groveton Heights subdivision, established in the 1930s and 1940s. Additionally, the area holds historical significance as the site of a Civil War battle in August 1862, where Confederate forces led by General Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson engaged with Union forces under General John Pope.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Cities in Pennsylvania
Centreville
This locality ranks fifth in the county for its crime rate, recording 33.92 crimes per 1,000 residents. Incidents of violent crimes, including assault and rape, are more prevalent here compared to other areas in the county.
Centreville, founded in 1792 as a town along the turnpike road from the Northwest Territory, holds historical significance. Additionally, it served as the location for various Civil War fortifications and battles, including the Battle of Blackburn’s Ford and the Battle of Chantilly.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Scottsdale, Arizona
Some Safe Neighborhoods in Fairfax County
Some secure neighborhoods in Fairfax County, Virginia include:
- Vienna
- Century Oak / Highland Oaks
- Hickory Farms / George Mason Forest
- Willow Springs / Crystal Springs
- Heatherbrook / Tregaron
These neighborhoods stand out as some of the safest places to reside in Fairfax County, supported by low crime rates and positive community features. If you’re considering living or visiting Fairfax County, these areas might be worth exploring.
Final Words
Fairfax County, known for its wealth and diversity, contains areas with crime concerns that require awareness. This article explores the five most risky neighborhoods in the county, emphasizing their crime rates and providing glimpses into their historical backgrounds.
Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, being acquainted with both potential dangers and safe havens in Fairfax County will enable you to navigate this dynamic region wisely and confidently. Remember, knowledge is power, and staying informed ensures a secure and enriching experience in Fairfax County.
